Two children and an adult were rushed to the hospital in critical condition after a two-vehicle crash yeaterday evening near 19th and Southern avenues in south Phoenix. Fire crews and paramedics treated several people at the scene, and at least one other adult was taken to the hospital with minor injuries, authorities said.
What Happened At 19th And Southern
Phoenix fire crews arrived around 7 p.m. to find two heavily damaged vehicles at the intersection. Two children and an adult had suffered serious injuries and were taken to nearby hospitals, while another adult was treated for minor wounds, according to ABC15 Arizona. Investigators have not yet released the victims' names or ages.
The crash shut down the busy south Phoenix intersection as firefighters, paramedics and police officers worked the scene and cleared debris.
Arizona’s Troubling Crash Numbers
Serious wrecks like this one are playing out against a grim backdrop statewide. The Arizona Department of Transportation reported 1,307 traffic fatalities in 2023 and identified speed and impairment as persistent leading contributors to deadly collisions. Those numbers continue to fuel concerns about roadway safety and the high cost of risky driving behavior.
Officials have repeatedly urged drivers and passengers to buckle up and use proper child restraints to help cut down on severe injuries.
Investigation And Road Closures
Phoenix police closed 19th Avenue while detectives documented the crash site and collected evidence, and said the investigation remains active, as reported by ABC15 Arizona. Detectives asked anyone with video from the area or information about what led up to the crash to contact the department.
Traffic in the surrounding blocks was diverted until crews finished their work and the roadway was cleared.
Child-Safety Reminder
Arizona law requires children under five to be secured in an appropriate child restraint system, and generally requires children under eight and under 4 feet 9 inches to be restrained as well. Violators face a civil penalty under A.R.S. 28-907, which also authorizes programs that provide or loan child seats to families who need them.
Safety experts say that correctly used car seats and booster seats dramatically cut the risk of severe injury for young passengers.
Authorities have not released further details about what caused the crash or updated the conditions of those hospitalized. This story will be updated as police, fire officials and hospitals share more information.
